Wilmington Police Department Hosts Ceremonial Run with Military Veteran Through Downtown Wilmington

Posted on 10/04/2013 3:54 pm

On October 2, 2013, Brendan O’Toole, a military veteran, ran through Wilmington as part of a cross country trek from California to Maine. In the 600 block of North Market Street, O’Toole passed Jerry Beauford who suddenly and without provocation punched O’Toole in the face and fled. O’Toole sustained a facial laceration and a concussion.

Police have arrested Garry Beauford in connection with the assault after a swift investigation involving the cooperation of the business community and Downtown Visions.

On Monday, October 7, the law enforcement and veteran’s community will join with Brendan to run a 3 mile ceremonial loop through the city of Wilmington. The run will begin at the Wilmington Police Department at 9:00 a.m. and will follow this route:

West on West 4th Street from the William T. McLaughlin Public Safety Building;

North on North Market Street to North Park Drive;

West on North Park Drive to North Van Buren Street;

South on North Van Buren Street to South Park Drive;

East on South Park Drive to King Street;

South on King Street to West 11th Street;

East on West 11th Street to French Street;

South on French Street to West 8th Street;

West on West 8th Street to King Street;

South on King Street to West 4th Street; and

East on West 4th Street to the William T. McLaughlin Public Safety Building where the run will end.

Since Brendan was assaulted there has been an outpouring of support from within and outside the law enforcement community. Veterans have called offering to open their homes to Brendan while he recovers, and citizens of Wilmington have inquired how they can help.

This ceremonial run is open to the public and will provide an opportunity to show support for Brendan and all of our active and retired military personnel who have served our country.

Those who do not wish participate in the run are welcome to see Brendan off at the police department or line the route of the run.